A Comprehensive Guide to Data Security in Cloud Computing

This used to be a big idea that no one thought would ever be practical, but now servers, applications and data are stored readily in the cloud for use and access by employees or for personal storage needs. Cloud storage is a much more flexible and efficient means to keep information safe and secure than traditional, legacy alternatives.

If you run a business, manage cloud security or have your own personal data that you want to store in the cloud, you might be worried about ways to make sure that it’s safe. It can feel daunting to think about your data being stored in the cloud in the hands of another entity that’s housing the storage space. Thankfully, there are many ways to make sure that your data is safe and secure while you are using cloud computing.

1. Secure user endpoints

This is one of the key ways to be sure that your data is safe and secure when it’s being shared and accessed by external users or those who are working on the same network as you. You’ll always want to be sure that those who access your cloud data have protected endpoints that they’re using to gain access. Endpoints are almost always the means by which threats are introduced to any network.

Endpoint security includes two-factor authentication and VPN use before accessing cloud data. It’s easy to put these solutions into place, particularly in business, and you shouldn’t skip this step. Being sure that the people who are accessing your data aren’t providing access to hackers and bad actors at the same time is crucial to your cloud computing security and safety.

2. Controlled user access protocols

This is a process that can be set up within your cloud and it adds another layer of security that would otherwise not be present. You’ll want to be sure that you set up some means by which those attempting to access your cloud storage must identify themselves. Being asked to verify identity before accessing the cloud is a lot like being asked to verify your identity before accessing an application on your phone or personal computer.

These simple security protocols can make it much easier to manage the security of your cloud storage and you shouldn’t be skipping out on using this simple solution for your security needs. This is a second layer of security that can add one last net by which you can halt hackers and bad actors before they gain access to your data.

3. Use a quality cloud provider

While it might cost a little bit of extra money, you should always work with a quality cloud provider for your cloud storage needs. You’ll get the best security and the best access protocols with this kind of provider as well as the benefit of being sure that your data will not vanish if the company goes out of business. There’s no reason to place your critical data in the hands of a company that isn’t well-known if you’re going to choose to spend the money to invest in this solution for your data storage.

There are many really excellent options for cloud storage plans and you should look at the offerings of these recognized providers before you entrust your data storage to them. You’ll find that there are many different kinds of storage plans and you can pick and choose which one works the best for your needs. Be sure that you’re never tempted to trust your data to a company that cannot back up its promises with a track record of good results.

4. Cloud usage policies

These strategies help to prevent risks to the security of your cloud accounts. You’ll want to be sure that you’re monitoring access by employees and that you have policies in place that guide best practices. Employees who are engaged in suspicious behavior will need to be talked to immediately and might need to have their access removed right away to eliminate threats to your data.

While you’ll probably never have to terminate anyone for this kind of behavior, having monitoring in place for these activities and proper training about cloud storage use is important. You’ll want to be sure that you aren’t hacked through the accidental errors or malicious actions of an employee who has permission to access your cloud storage. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to cloud usage policies and oversight.

Data security in cloud computing doesn’t have to be hard

These best practices will help you to keep your cloud computing access secure and safe for everyone. Even if you’re setting up cloud storage opportunities for your own personal use, you should follow these best practices to make sure that your data is safe and secure at all times. Cloud storage is a really great and flexible way to make sure that you can access your data at any time, but only if the cloud storage solution that you are using is managed correctly.

There are many great cloud storage providers out there that you can entrust with your data and the security solutions that will keep it safe. Make sure that you look at the offerings of more than one of these companies to find the perfect monthly plan for your needs. Cloud storage is no longer the future and is instead the norm. Make sure that you’re using this powerful tool correctly for your personal or business use.